Because I like to think that I have a pretty decent sense of humor, I have imagined what it would be like to have a small, brief appearance on Saturday Night Live. Oh, I know, that’s such a frivolous idea for a pastor of a church to spend any time thinking about.
Frankly, I’m embarrassed to admit such a thing. I really should be pondering deep theological matters and issues of eternal consequence—but I’m sorry, that’s where my mind sometimes wanders when I’m daydreaming.
So, with some chagrin, I share this make believe appearance on SNL that I have imagined.
It’s 10 minutes to show time and since SNL is done live, there is a furious bustle of activity in Studio 8H, along with that exciting feeling of raw energy that comes with a mixture of nerves and adrenalin. Everyone is feeling the combination of intensity and jitters that always accompany any pressure-filled, significant performance.
The celebrity host for the evening walks past me getting in place for the show’s cold opening. I smile and say, “It’s almost go time!” Then I hold out my hand for the high five. Unfortunately, at no time during that brief moment did he even notice me.
Do I feel self-conscious and a little out of place? Of course I do! I realize that it’s just a crazy lark that I’m even participating in such an event…
Hey look, there’s Betty White! I wave, but she doesn’t see me.
Oh well, I know how these things go and I realize that everyone is feeling nervous.
Just then the segment producer approaches, holding a clipboard and says, “Excuse me, who are you?”
“Oh,” I chuckle and say, “I’m Dan Marler. Remember? I’m the guy who has the little line in tonight’s next to the last sketch.” I hold out my hand for the high five.
At that point the security guards are called and I’m briskly escorted from the building.
[ Long pause, along with a deep sigh. ] Gee whiz, you know something has gone terribly awry when a guy can’t even catch a fun break in his own daydreams!
